Statement for National Aboriginal Day 2018

“National Aboriginal Day is an opportunity for all Canadians to recognize the important contributions Indigenous peoples have made to this country,” said Elizabeth May (MP, Saanich-Gulf Islands).

“The history of relations between Indigenous communities and Canada is one of injustice and exclusion. The relics of colonialism – the reserve system, residential schools and the systemic racism of the Indian Act – remain a current reality. Indigenous peoples have endured, and all too often continue to endure, unacceptable violations of their fundamental rights,” said Ms. May.

“We hope that commitments to reconciliation are real. Indigenous peoples are increasingly making their mark in the move to sustainable energy, to the arts, the sciences, in the fashion industry, in politics and in many other spheres. I hope that soon we will be able to look at the 21st Century as the Indigenous century — when Indigenous power was restored, where fairer and more respectful relations with other Canadian communities were established and when reconciliation was accomplished,” said Ms. May.

On National Aboriginal Day 2018, the Green Party of Canada highlights its support for full implementation of the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, the full implementation of the Truth and Reconciliation Calls to Action and Bill S-212, the Aboriginal Languages of Canada Act: an Act for the advancement of the aboriginal languages of Canada and to recognize and respect aboriginal language rights.